the u.s. is seeking closer relations with asean nations, apparently part of its strategy to counter the rising military power of china in the asia-pacific region. the two sides issued a joint statement after the meeting, saying they would tap into a u.s. program that supplies excess armaments to friendly countries. armed naval vessels and f-16 fighter jet engines are likely to be included. the u.s. had stopped the flying arms to thailand because of political turmoil, including a military coup. >>> pakistan says it's ready to free a number of taliban prisoners in its custody. pakistan supported the ousted taliban regime in afghanistan and is believed to retain some influence over the militant group. the afghan government has requested their release as it tries to engage the taliban in peace negotiations. from islamabad, nhk world, islam reports. >> reporter: an envoy visited islamabad this week for talks with pakistani political and military leaders. he is the chair of the high peace continue s